Fee Breakdown for OPRA in New Zealand
Here's a detailed breakdown of the costs you'll encounter during your OPRA journey:
- Application for Initial Consideration
The first step involves applying for initial consideration of your overseas qualification and experience. This assessment will determine your eligibility to proceed with the OPRA pathway.
Cost: NZD 777 - OPRA Exam Fee
The OPRA (Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment) exam assesses your knowledge in pharmaceutical sciences and is a critical component of the registration process.
Cost: NZD 2,190 - NZPL Course
The New Zealand Practice and Law (NZPL) course is mandatory for understanding the local regulations and practice standards in New Zealand.
Cost: NZD 2,400 - Registration in the Intern Pharmacist Scope of Practice - the next step is to register in the Intern Pharmacist Scope of Practice to gain practical experience under expert supervision. Cost: NZD 957 (after May assessment) and 340 (after November assessment)
- Evolve Intern Program Fees
After passing the KAPS exam and completing the NZPL course, you will need to enrol in the Evolve Intern Program. This program provides hands-on experience and is a crucial step towards your final registration.
Cost: NZD 8,950 - Complete Registration
Upon successful completion of the Evolve Intern Program, you will apply for registration as a pharmacist. This is the final step before becoming a fully registered pharmacist in New Zealand.
Cost: NZD 1312 and 695.33 (post November)
Total Estimated Costs
The overall cost of completing the OPRA process can be summarised in the table below:
Step | Cost (NZD) |
Application for Initial Consideration | $777 |
OPRA Exam Fee | $2,190 |
NZPL Course | $2,400 |
Intern Pharmacist Scope Registration (May) | $957 |
Intern Pharmacist Scope Registration (November) | $340 |
Evolve Intern Program Fees | $8,950 |
Complete Registration (Pre-Nov) | $1,312 |
Complete Registration (Post-Nov) | $695.33 |
Additional Considerations
- Study Materials and Preparatory Courses: While the fees listed above cover the mandatory components of the OPRA pathway, additional costs for study materials, preparatory courses, or tutoring can vary widely.
- Travel and Accommodation: If you are required to travel for the KAPS exam or any on-site components of the NZPL course, you should also budget for travel and accommodation expenses.
- Re-sit Fees: If you need to re-sit any exams, additional fees will apply. It's essential to prepare thoroughly to avoid extra costs.
Conclusion
The journey to becoming a registered pharmacist in New Zealand through the OPRA pathway involves multiple steps, each with its associated fees. Planning and budgeting for these costs upfront will help you manage the financial aspects of this career move.
Ready to take the leap? Visit Academically for guidance and personalised courses to help you ace the OPRA exam and other components of your registration process. Here’s to turning your dream of becoming a pharmacist in New Zealand into a reality!
